For over two decades, Joe Rogan has been the electrifying voice of the UFC, providing technical analysis with unfiltered enthusiasm that resonates with hardcore fans and casual viewers. Beyond his role as a color commentator, Rogan’s passion for the sport has helped bridge the gap between MMA and mainstream pop culture, turning UFC broadcasts into cultural touchstones. At UFC 318, Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight against Max Holloway, Rogan will be noticeably absent from the commentary booth.
Dustin Poirier’s Emotional Reaction to Joe Rogan’s Absence for UFC 318 Sendoff originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
For over two decades, Joe Rogan has been the electrifying voice of the UFC, providing technical analysis with unfiltered enthusiasm that resonates with hardcore fans and casual viewers. His iconic post-fight, in-Octagon interviews have become a staple of UFC broadcasts, often capturing raw, emotional moments that define fighters’ careers.
Beyond his role as a color commentator, Rogan’s passion for the sport has helped bridge the gap between MMA and mainstream pop culture, turning UFC broadcasts into cultural touchstones. Whether breaking down submissions or hyping up knockouts, Rogan’s voice has been the soundtrack to countless legendary moments inside the Octagon.
At UFC 318, Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight against Max Holloway, Rogan will be noticeably absent from the commentary booth. This marks a rare instance where the longtime commentator misses a U.S. pay-per-view event, with Paul Felder stepping in as his replacement.
Poirier, who has shared numerous post-fight moments with Rogan throughout his career, expressed mixed emotions about the situation.
“Closing it out with Rogan would’ve been cool, but also, DC, the legend he is, the Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer he is, everything he brings is awesome to be able to talk to him when it’s all said and done,” Poirier said during UFC 318 media day.
The reason for Rogan’s absence remains unclear, though former UFC fighter Josh Thomson suggested Rogan might still attend the event as a fan, possibly alongside comedian Theo Von.
Thomson posted on X, “I wouldn’t be surprised if Joe is there to watch Dustin fight one last time with his boy Theo [and] actually enjoy watching one of the greatest fighters ever wrap up his career with his friends.”
Poirier, however, is aware of the significance of having another Louisiana native, Daniel Cormier, conduct his final post-fight interview.
“[He’s] another Louisiana boy in New Orleans, so it’s special,” Porier acknowledged.
Despite Rogan’s absence, the UFC 318 broadcast team remains stacked, with Cormier, Felder, and Jon Anik calling the action, ensuring Poirier’s farewell receives the gravitas it deserves.
Rogan’s absence is particularly notable given his history with Poirier. The two have shared the Octagon after some of Poirier’s most iconic wins, including his 2019 victory over Holloway for the interim lightweight title. Rogan’s emotional post-fight interviews have often highlighted Poirier’s resilience and charisma, making this missed opportunity a sentimental moment for fans.
Still, Poirier remains focused on ending his career with a win, aiming to go 3-0 against Holloway in his final dance, and what promises to be a barnburner of a main event.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
